The City has had a long-standing relationship with the Utah County Stormwater Coalition. They produced the following article for us to pass along to our residents.
Deicers lower the melting point of ice to help remove ice and snow from pavement. Sodium chloride (rock salt) is the most common product because it’s effective and cheap. However, it is highly corrosive and ecologically damaging. Some deicers are significant sources of phosphorous. Here are some ways to help keep our water supply cleaner:
- Be sure to keep deicers in a covered area to prevent runoff to the storm system and contamination of ground water.
- Always apply deicing products according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Using the old-fashioned approach of a shovel means eliminating ice and snow without harmful chemicals and with the added benefit of physical exercise.
Why Does It Matter?
Polluted water that enters your storm drain (the grate in the street curb that collects water runoff) does not get treated, and instead flows directly into local water bodies where it can harm aquatic life and habitats, contaminate drinking water supplies and recreational waterways, and lessen aesthetic value.
